The Lion, the Artist, and the Mural (storyline)/Recaps (summary)
Chapter 1 Recaps
02.04.2024
Bastaesil Hemstead arrived in North Market looking for a Taladorian artist and his daughter. She had posted a sign earlier in the day noting that they'd be arriving this afternoon. Unfortunately, they hadn't arrived yet and there was concern from some that maybe the weather had delayed them, while others were concerned it was the travel. Bastaesil went off to see if her Uncle had heard of them being delayed, while a group of adventurers went off to double-check the roads leading in from the north. They arrived in Cairnfang forest as a group of bandits were setting up the pair, and quickly escorted them out of the woods and into Vornavis. Interestingly enough, they were hounded all the way to the Gates of Vornavis before the bandits ceased, someone calling from the woods that they needed to stop their attack or the "Talon" would have their head for crossing the bridge.
Once in North Market, the group was met by Bastaesil who informed them that the Guild had found lodging for them with a local family. Lady Ba'Thira would be housing them in her Vornavian home for the duration of their stay.
Tshomlin, the artist, asked for a renegotiation of the terms, stating that he would need supplies for the project. Bastaesil offered to take a list to the local suppliers, but he insisted that he was particular about his needs and would want to pick them out himself. She grudgingly agreed to the terms and then offered to take them to Lady Ba'Thira's house. Tshomlin declined, asking that she take his daughter instead.
Once gone, Tshomlin asked what the local game was like. At first misunderstanding that he wasn't speaking about hunting, the artist clarified he was looking for gambling games. Several inquiries were made about his previous work and he mentioned he'd done work in the Capital of Talador before the fall. He listed two pieces, stating he'd painted Kuligar Gardane and done a piece in Doggoroth Keep of a clan of Dwarves. At some point, someone made a joke about dicing causing someone to fall and Tshomlin said that he needed to be careful as he couldn't leave his daughter without two parents. He briefly shared, growing more maudlin as he did, that his wife had died during the fall of Talador while he and his daughter were out of the barony. Her name was Alarranne. He spoke poetically about her talent and beauty. Taking another of the brews that had been offered from the ground, he decided to head off but not before asking where the local watering holes were.
Moments later, Akinir came looking for him but missed him. She wanted to remind him to tell everyone about the meeting the next evening so that they could learn about the Lady Kasendra from locals. She asked that they not tell him she'd shared the information, instead asking them to state that Miss Hemstead gave the reminder. She was asked which of her father's pieces of work were her favorite and after a bit of hemming and hawing, she said she was. There was talk of asking him to share his portrait of her for the local gallery and she quickly corrected stating that all his work was lost in the Bleak. She rushed off to take a bath.
02.05.2024
Akinir Scallabrini arrived to the zoo a bit late. She was clean and well dressed, though she was concerned that Lady Ba'Thira would be upset that she got a little blood on her new shirt when she fell down some steps. She was a bit nervous to be healed, but submitted with a firm insistence by Lady Meril. She apologized to those gathered that her father couldn't make it as he was feeling poorly due to a bump on the head, which she insisted he must have sustained during the bandit attack in the forest. She ensured everyone that she took care of him, mentioning that she put him to bed with bread and water, and that all would be fine in the morning. She insisted he would be alright.
Akinir then requested that everyone tell her about the Lady Kasendra so that she could get the information to her father. She said she'd take very careful notes, and eventually it was decided -- since she didn't want to sit on the ground in her new skirt -- that everyone sound adjourn to Communitea.
Once there, folks shared details of Lady Kasendra with the young woman. Lord Mynon took the lead, sharing the most, while others filled in details.
Folks kept trying to feed her things, but she insisted she was fine. And when she was asked if she wanted a seat, she insisted that the seats were for grown ups and that "The gods gave me two good legs for standing." At one point, she grew angry when someone asked if she was painting the mural, insisting over and over that she never said such a thing and that her father was the painter. She frequently promised that he would get it done.
At the end of the evening she wandered off with a cleaning formula for the shirt, a head full of everyone's shared memories of the Lady Kasendra, and mumbling plans to presumably share with her father.
02.06.2024
Rumors abound in Solhaven. Ask Mabel about NEWS to find out more.
Mabel - Wandering North Haven - to read her rumors, click here.
>ask woman about news
Hunching her back a little, a stooped old woman says, "News is that I probably should start using a cane." She chuckles lightly, clearly amusing herself. "I kid, though not really. I suppose I could share news about the Guild or even a bit of gossip."
>ask woman about gossip
Rubbing one wrinkled and gnarled hand against her back, a stooped old woman says, "Gossip? Huh? No, go ask Gertie, she's got a bird's-eye view of this place. Or maybe Ghrym, just about everything goes through the pawnshop. Or maybe you want to ask that new lass in Communitea, she's Taladorian, ain't she?" Squinting into the crowd, she mumbles, "Excuse me, I need to go find that urchin. I hear he's got a fat lip and I'm sure his mother would like to know about it!"
>ask woman about guild
Turning first her head, and then her body, a stooped old woman says, "The Merchantyle Guild has been pretty active lately if you ask me." She plants her hands on her hips, which only serves to give her the appearance of having a humped back. "Hired an artist from the Scallabrini family up in Talador, well, I guess displaced Talador now. They want to have a memorial mural made for the Lady Kasendra. I don't know much about them, though..."
Gertie - Located on Bayside Road in Solhaven - to read her rumors, click here.
>ask gert about news
The peddler Gertie says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about Scallabrini, Akinir, and the Urchin."
>ask gert about scallabrini
The peddler Gertie chews on the question for a moment or two before saying, "Scallabrini? I don't remember ever hearing about the family when I visited Talador."
>ask gert about akinir
Smiling, the peddler Gertie says, "Cute little thing, a bit timid for 'Haven where we breed them bold." She chuckles. "She can stand up for her own, though. I hear tell that one of the street urchins tried to steal her doll from her, and she wouldn't have anything to do with it."
>ask gert about urchin
Frowning, the peddler Gertie says, "You'll have to ask Kahlyr what happened as she's the one that told me about it."
Kahlyr - Located in Kahlyr's Precious Gems - to read her rumors, click here.
>ask kah about news
The jeweler Kahlyr says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about Scallabrini, Akinir, and the Urchin."
>ask kahl about scallabrini
Nodding, Kahlyr says, "The new Taladorian family that is being cared for by Lady Ba'Thira? Oh, yes, I've seen them. I can't say I know much about them, but the girl is an interesting character."
>ask kahl about akinir
Pondering for a moment, Kahlyr says, "Well, I was heading home. I live up on Tumbledown, and the lass was coming down the steps. She had one of those owl dolls and, well, I'm not sure if it was Tim, Bill, Nori, or Allard, those boys all blur into one of you ask me, but one of them was harassing her about playing with her doll. She ended up taking a tumble down some steps, and I was just about to step in when she socked the boy right in the mouth!"
>ask kahl about urchin
Chuckling, Kahlyr says, "I realize that I shouldn't have let it happen, but it was nice to see the timid little thing stand up for herself, especially to that brat."
Walsor - Located in North 'Haven Pawnery - to read her rumors, click here.
>ask wall about news
The pawnbroker Walsor Gryhm says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about Scallabrini, Akinir, Tshomlin, and Items."
>ask wal about scallabrini
Grunting quietly before answering, the pawnbroker Walsor Gryhm says, "That the last name of that new refugee family the Guild hired?"
>ask wal about akinir
Frowning, the pawnbroker Walsor Gryhm says, "I don't know much about the girl, though I've seen her here or there. But the father's been through here a time or two."
>ask wal about tshomlin
Walsor Gryhm nods slowly, a contemplative look on his face, and after a long pause, he eventually says, "Not one to gossip if I can help it, but the man reeked of two-day-old beer and was mumbling about losing at dice. I think the sailor who likes to hang out at the North Quay may have been in that game. I don't play many games myself."
>ask wal about item
Hooking his thumbs into his belt loop, the pawnbroker Walsor Gryhm says, "Strange collection of items, if you ask me. Not stuff you'd think a refugee out of one of those camps would have, but who knows? Maybe it's a family heirloom he tried to hold onto." Pulling out a log, he reads it over. "Looks like a trinket box, an ivory brush, and some kind of small monkey."
Old Sailor - Located on Bayside - to read his rumors, click here.
>ask sailor about news
The old sailor says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about Scallabrini, Dice, and Akinir."
>ask sailor about scallabrini
Narrowing his eyes, the old sailor says, "The - FAMOUS - painter?" He spits on the ground, and, like a storm rolling in off the bay, his features darken. "Scallywag and con. The man's got sea legs despite never touching the sea if you know what I mean. He's terrible at dice, too."
>ask sailor about dice
Shrugging, the old sailor says, "There's a sometimes dice game in one of the Market Bend alleys. He rolled up jingling his pockets like he was full of coin, mooched booze off the locals, and lost spectacularly. Kept saying he'd be good for it but at the end of the night, he was no richer. He's lucky I'm both patient and a nice guy. I dragged him out before he could get clubbed in the head and sent him north over the bridges. I can wait for my payment but not everyone is going to be that kind."
>ask sailor about akinir
Frowning, the old sailor says, "The daughter? I ain't seen her, but I hear tell Lady Ba'Thira is delighted to have a kid in the house again. You might be able to persuade that priestess in Lorminstra's temple to share some information on the Lady. Ain't my place."
Priestess - Located in Lorminstra's Memorial Garden - to read her rumors, click here.
>ask priestess about news
An ebon-robed aging priestess says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about Ba'Thira, her Family, her Name, Akinir, and Tshomlin."
>ask priestess about Ba'Thira
Speaking quietly, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "Danalla has had a hard life. She is a widow and has turned back to her family name of Ba'Thira. I'm not sure where she originally hailed from, but she was the wife of the late Lord Solandigo. He and his children perished during some of the Wars that came through here. I try not to dwell on which one with her, but I'd say it was about twenty years ago."
>ask priestess about family
Folding her hands into the sleeves of her robes, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "The Solandigo family was rather large at one point, though most of the older folk moved off with cousins or friends in Aldora. With all the chaos here a decade, or was it two, ago, they wanted to go somewhere a little bit safer. I tried to encourage Danalla to join them, but she insisted on staying. She wanted to be sure that someone was still in town to take care of the husband and two daughters' plots in the graveyard. I told her I could do it for her, but I don't think she would accept because she couldn't stand being around her married family anymore. It was just too painful."
>ask priestess about name
Gazing up and into the distance, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "I remember the day she did it. It was a very quiet affair. I even notarized the papers for her so that the clerk wouldn't give her a hard time up at the Registry. She couldn't handle the looks and whispers, because once someone knew she was a Solandigo... Well, they tried to be kind, but it became a burden to her. It took her years before she would step back into the zoo again."
>ask priestess about akinir
Tilting her head, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "Oh, yes, the young Taladorian girl. Danalla did introduce me to her. Timid thing. A bit on the skinny side, but I think she'll blossom under Danalla's care, and I think it will be just what the Lady needs to pull her out of a nearly twenty-year depression."
>ask priestess about tshomlin
Frowning, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "I've not heard much about him, though he seems very not present. A shame, a young girl like that needs family so much during hard times. Perhaps Lorminstra will guide him to healing. Or maybe even the twins down at Scaup and Shadow."
02.08.2024
Akinir was found in the zoo working to clean one of the walls of the Aquarium where several blue-green tiles had been removed to make way for the mural to be painted. She was questioned about the whereabouts of her father and made an excuse that he wasn’t feeling well. She claims he was okay during the day and working with her but later became ill.
A few adventurers talked about helping with the wall, one jumped in, but Akinir was concerned that her father wouldn’t get paid if others did the work.
She said she was worried and then went on to say that she didn’t want to upset the Lady Ba’Thira but she knew that the Lady had fired her cook for the wrong reasons. She overheard the Lady arguing with someone about forcing a young girl that should be in school to do work and then, the cook was fired.
She also was worried because some of the Lady’s things were missing, including a bronze monkey that the Lady’s late husband had gifted her.
She was encouraged to speak to the Lady and set things straight, but before that conversation could go very far, a voice in the shadows asked her to come away with them.
The voice shared that he was “the Lion of Crooked Way” and that the father owed him two million silvers in debt at an interest rate of 7% a day. Leothonel asked Akinir to go with him to ensure that the father would pay.
The adventurers rather quickly figured out what that meant and encircled Akinir. The “Lion” decided it was time to make them give her up and an invasion of bandits, thugs, pirates, and rakes ensued.
Akinir was secreted away to Vornavis and brought to Oleander house while the streets were cleared of the unruly mob trying to capture her.
Eventually, the Vornavian guard caught wind of what was happening and sent guards out into the streets to help with the cleanup.
Dame Jarnsaixa found a group of adventurers at the Esplanade Gates and another set on Dondraek. She asked those there to fill her in and to also send her a report.
A plan was made to get guards to protect Lady Ba’Thira’s home and then to bring Akinir there.
While the larger group was talking to Lady Ba’Thira, Akinir opened up about a few things with those still around.
She admitted to slipping her father a sleeping draught so that he wouldn’t go out for the night because he’d been drinking very heavily the night before and that was the real cause of his sickness. She tucked him away in a makeshift bed in Lady Ba’Thira’s attic.
Jarnsaixa returned having secured guards and walked Akinir to the Lady’s House and guarded safety.
02.09.2024
Rumors abound once more in Solhaven! Ask Mabel about News!
[OOC Note: Mabel and two others have been updated, one person has been left as they have important information unrelated to last night's events. Others have also been updated.]
Mabel - Wandering North Haven - to read her rumors, click here.
> ask woman about news
Hunching her back a little, a stooped old woman says, "News is that I probably should start using a cane." She chuckles lightly, clearly amusing herself. "I kid, though not really. I suppose I could share a bit of gossip."
> ask woman about gossip
Rubbing one wrinkled and gnarled hand against her back, a stooped old woman says, "Gossip about Leothonel? Huh? No, go ask Kedy, she knows more about the going-ons in South Haven than anyone. Or maybe you want to ask the Kindred in the workyard down South?" Squinting into the crowd, she mumbles, "Excuse me, I need to go find that urchin. I hear he's skipping school again."
Giantman Worker - Salter's Workyard - to read his rumors, click here.
> ask worker about news
A wall-eyed giantman worker says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about the local gossip, Leothonel, Crooked Alley, and Gambling."
> ask worker about gossip
Glancing around, a wall-eyed giantman worker says, "Not much into gossip, but I'll give you a few facts. Leothonel is the newest of a long string of Crooked Alley gang leaders. They don't last long and they usually move out to the Cairnfang forest. I guess you could say that the Crooked Alley is kind of a place for the various orphans around South Haven to cut their teeth before heading off to join northern encampments. We've had a lot of tragedies in these parts, between Wars, Avatars, and Cataclysm that created a lot of orphans."
> ask worker about Loethonel
Chuckling lightly, a wall-eyed giantman worker says, "The self-styled Lion of Crooked Way." He scoffs. "I remember when the boy was only as high as my knee, but I guess that was a good long while ago now. Leothonel is what you get when you have a street boy that doesn't have enough friends that are willing to tell you that you're an arse. Everyone needs one of those growing up."
> ask worker about Crooked Alley
Glancing southward, a wall-eyed giantman worker says, "Guards don't come down far enough and most of us know to stay clear of it. Most of us just do our jobs down here and try to not give anyone a reason to come looking too close at us. Talon's been trying to clean up some sections down here. She's better than many of the guards. Not afraid to come out at night but also understands how we live down here so she doesn't shame us into changing our ways. Just be careful of your pockets when she's around."
> ask worker about Gambling
Shaking his head, a wall-eyed giantman worker says, "I wouldn't gamble down here if I were you. Everythings rigged. Everything is only good for the person running the game. And if you do gamble down here, for the love of all that's holy, don't ask to go on credit. That's how they get you."
Dibbles - wanders around South Haven selling Fishcakes - to read his rumors, click here.
>ask vendor about news
A lanky black-haired vendor says, "Well, in orduh, I know a bit 'bout tha' local gossip, Leothonel, Tshomlin, Talon, Gambling, and Thugs."
>ask vendor about gossip
A lanky black-haired vendor says, "Sure, I heared tha' thar wuz a ruckus up no'th o'er some lil' girl. Tha rumor mill says somethin' 'bout tha' girl nah wantin' ta complete tha' painting, so tha' Lion tried ta strong arm 'er inta it." A lanky black-haired vendor shrugs.
>ask vendor about leothonel
Glancing southwest, a lanky black-haired vendor says, "Yea, tha Lion o' Crooked Way. I'd nae want ta meet 'im in a dark alley. Tha' boy gits 'is bread buttuh'd at a couple of temples sou' o' Baron's bridge, ifn ye keen wha' I'm sayin'."
>ask vendor about tshomlin
Nodding several times, a lanky black-haired vendor says, "Yea, I seen tha' supposet artist. 'e's got the rheumy hands. Ye know, the drinkin' shakes? Man's turnin' yelluh. I'dnae be surprised if'n 'e's dead soon. Jist ah 'nothah deadbeat parent in Sou' Haven tha'll give us jist ah 'nother orphan ta' care fer."
>ask vendor about gambling
Speaking very slowly, a lanky black-haired vendor says, "Oh, I might gamble wit some of me friends but I sure dun do so on tha' streets. Nae since Talon broke up tha' game wha' was in Market Bend, anyways. She's gittin' a much tighter hol' on thins than Plaitime e'er did. She kinda reminds me of 'er mum. Thems wuz some good days."
>ask vendor about thugs
Pointedly looking south, a lanky black-haired vendor says, "Whut kin ye do but stay out o' Crooked Way? Guards'llnae e'en go down thar. And it'snae like they ain't tried. Clean 'em out ah notha' group'll jist move in."
Prietess - Stays in Lorminstra's Memorial Garden - to read her rumors, click here.
> ask priestess about news
An ebon-robed aging priestess says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about Ba'Thira, Lady Ba'Thira's cook, her Family, her Name, Akinir, and Tshomlin."
> ask priestess about Ba'Thira
Speaking quietly, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "Danalla has had a hard life. She is a widow and has turned back to her family name of Ba'Thira. I'm not sure where she originally hailed from, but she was the wife of the late Lord Solandigo. He and his children perished during some of the Wars that came through here. I try not to dwell on which one with her, but I'd say it was about twenty years ago."
> ask preistess about family
Folding her hands into the sleeves of her robes, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "The Solandigo family was rather large at one point, though most of the older folk moved off with cousins or friends in Aldora. With all the chaos here a decade, or was it two, ago, they wanted to go somewhere a little bit safer. I tried to encourage Danalla to join them, but she insisted on staying. She wanted to be sure that someone was still in town to take care of the husband and two daughters' plots in the graveyard. I told her I could do it for her, but I don't think she would accept because she couldn't stand being around her married family anymore. It was just too painful."
> ask priestess about name
Gazing up and into the distance, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "I remember the day she did it. It was a very quiet affair. I even notarized the papers for her so that the clerk wouldn't give her a hard time up at the Registry. She couldn't handle the looks and whispers, because once someone knew she was a Solandigo... Well, they tried to be kind, but it became a burden to her. It took her years before she would step back into the zoo again."
> ask priestess about akinir
Tilting her head, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "Oh, yes, the young Taladorian girl. Danalla did introduce me to her. Timid thing. A bit on the skinny side, but I think she'll blossom under Danalla's care, and I think it will be just what the Lady needs to pull her out of a nearly twenty-year depression."
> ask priestess about Tshomlin
Frowning, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "I've not heard much about him, though he seems very not present. A shame, a young girl like that needs family so much during hard times. Perhaps Lorminstra will guide him to healing. Or maybe even the twins down at Scaup and Shadow."
> ask priestess about cook
Smiling gently, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "Thank you for your concern. Yes, someone did come forward and tell Danalla that she might find her missing things with Walsor. When she went to him, he let her buy them back without a markup and even told her who sold them. She was very upset about the whole thing and apologized profusely to the cook."
Red - Sells boats at Fisherman's Quay - to read his rumors, click here.
> ask man about news
A mangy red-haired man says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about the local gossip, Leothonel, Talon, and rules."
>ask man about gossip
Laughing, his face splitting into a wide grin, a mangy red-haired man says, "Dock-folk don't call it gossip, you landlubber! It's called scuttlebutt. Gossip is for the washerwomen or the fish wives. Scuttlebutt has a nicer ring to it, don't you think? It doesn't sound all drama-filled and mean. Just be careful that you don't tell any of them I said that " He suddenly becomes very serious, before continuing, ""I don't need no evil eye watching me."
>ask man about leothonel
Snorting, a mangy red-haired man says, "Used to be the mean kid. Got kicked out of school on account of dicing in the play yard or so I hear tell now he's fancied himself the Lion of Crooked Way. There's going to be a bit of a war down here soon, so I'd be careful if I were you. He broke one of Talon's rules, which means he's getting ready to start something, and I'm not sure how much backing he's got."
>ask man about talon
Chewing on the question for several moments, a mangy red-haired man slowly says, "I'm not really sure what to make of Talon. Everyone knew her mom, brave woman, and I think Talon's probably got a little too much of Jantalorian in her for some folks. She's got two pretty big rules; most folks don't mind them but some always will."
>ask man about rules
Leaning forward, a mangy red-haired man says, "Rule number one is don't mess with the orphans of South Haven. It's a pretty hard and fast rule, and rumor has it that if you break it she shows up at the foot of your bed to remind you how she took out her own uncle. I'm told it's a pretty scary sight. The other rule is no skin trade."
Maellyn Kedy - She owns the fabric shop in South Haven - to read her rumors, click here.
> ask Maellyn about news
Maellyn Kedy says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about the local gossip, Leothonel, Talon, and orphans."
> ask Maellyn about gossip
Smiling, Maellyn Kedy seems to be in her element and leans into the question, "Oh, there's all manner of things happening here in South Haven. Have you talked to Red up by the fishing boat's pier? What about Dimples?"
> ask Maellyn about Leothonel
Taking a big breath, Maellyn Kedy says, "Well, Leo has been down here for a long time. Back during the Cataclysm, his parents and their whole street went under, and Charl didn't see fit to spit them back out. He was pretty upset about the whole thing, and my understanding of it is that he has a sketch of the person he thinks is responsible. Rumor has it that he's going to get that person one day, though he won't ever say who it is. I think he wants to be the hero or something."
> ask Maellyn about Talon
Dropping her voice to a whisper, Maellyn Kedy says, "Talon's rather a mixed bag, isn't she? Not sure I'm happy she's back as I don't really agree with all the things she's on about. She's trying to unify the gangs, scares even the blackest hearted, and is caring for the orphans, but the way she went after Plaitime doesn't sit well with many of us. I do miss the old scoundrel. He had some pretty good tricks that could make even raciest wench blush." Sighing heavily, she stares out the shop window for long moments.
> ask Maellyn about orphans
Lifting her head, Maellyn Kedy says, "Hmm? Oh, you mean the Talon Initiative, as we like to jokingly call it? Rumor has it, she pulled off some big heist and bought the estate on Shadow and Scaup. You know, the one across from the artist's house The one that turned his home into a shrine for Laethe and Voaris. Someone said she's turning it into an orphanage."
Sailor - He hangs out on Bayside Road - to read his rumors, click here.
>ask sailor about news
The old sailor says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about Tshomlin or DragonBones."
>ask sailor about tshomlin
Frowning, the old sailor says, "Poor bastard is as good as dead, and he doesn't even know it. That lion guy down there isn't someone to joke about. He lasted longer than Plaitime and survived both his parents, who were definitely shady and pretty well-connected."
>ask sailor about dragonbones
Spitting out a curse, the old sailor says, "Gods, I hope this isn't a trap for Tshomlin. That poor kid. I'd steer clear of any games in South Haven if I were you."
02.10.2024
Lady Ba’Thira arrived outside the Dragonsbone tent in South Haven looking for Tshomlin. She explained that she was to meet him and when pressed admitted that she was paying the man off so that she could provide care for Akinir. She wanted to get her legally and firmly in her household so that she could enroll her in school. She admitted to having kicked him out of the house due to a disagreement.
Tshomlin arrived looking no worse for wear and accepted the coin purse from Lady Ba’Thira. A disagreement happened immediately, as he had committed another con, but this time with the lady’s heart and coin. He was determined to win back his coin with the money that the Lady provided and repay her. He absolutely refused to relinquish his parental rights.
After he entered the tent, the Lady departed, under guard, back to her home. She was most distraught.
Tshomlin was dogged from the moment he entered the tent and lost badly. He managed to win one round, but then immediately lost the win. Something in the tent spooked him, for he departed abruptly and couldn’t be tracked.
As a search began for Tshomlin, Lady Zieschka, the newest member of the Merchantyle Guild, arrived and greeted everyone. She was a little taken back by the crowd and the news that they shared. However, she did come up with a plan with those adventurers that were present.
The mural was to have its first marker set on Volnes and a meeting with the Guild and the Scallabrinis was to have taken place. Zieschka was going to let the Hemsteads know the lay of the land and that folks believed Akinir was the real artist. She was then going to ask Dame Vargrdoittr to provide some hidden security within the zoo to keep whom every showed up safe. She was also going to hide some spies there to see who was actually working on the mural.
Zieschka made it sound like a simple affair to change the contract over to the daughter and to fire the father.
02.12.2024
Jillou showed up at Bobo’s Toy Park to do some fishing today. She admitted she was skipping school but she had some fairly sound logic for the reason. She needed to practice fishing. She later admitted that she didn’t want to go in because they were learning about the scary stuff in history, which made her not sleep.
There was some discussion on how other Nations send kids to school very young for discipline but Jillou matter-of-factly stated that Marshfolk don’t live long enough to reach retirement age and so they need to do those things when they are young. Later on, when asked if she promised to go back to school tomorrow, Jillou said that she would because she had to learn how to do the numbers. She stated that the guy doing them for her dad seemed to be doing things wrong because they seemed to be making less and less, even though they were serving more and more.
She described the guy and couldn’t remember his name, though when someone said Leothonael she admitted that was him. She will talk to her Paw Paw about it but tell him to go to Master Hemstead because they pay into the Merchantyle Guild just like all the other shops and should be getting some protection, too.
OOC Note: Fishing is now live in Solhaven! You can fish off the boats in the bay, but you can also fish from the following locations:
- Center Market Bridge
- North 'Haven Quay
- End of each OSA Pier
- Charl's Quay
- Fisherman's Quay
- End of North Market Pier
- End of Fishmarket Pier
- Bobo's Toy Park
02.12.2024 - Later that day...
A commotion loud enough to be heard in the North Market brought adventurers to the zoo where Zieschka and Bastaeli were arguing with Tshomlin over the mural. Lady Danalla Ba’Thira was hovering protectively around Akinir as the group argued.
Tshomlin’s hand was wrapped and when questioned about it, he said that he’d injured it in a painting accident.
Zieschka pointed out that they’d been watching the progress of the mural all day and knew that he’d not even so much as lift a piece of chalk to help Akinir produce the outline that was there now.
Akinir finely relented under pressure and admitted that she’d been doing the work and trying to make things right by her father. Tshomlin was rather unkind to his daughter at that point and demanded she stop saying things. She told him she liked feeling safe at night and having a full belly. He continued but then seemed to get spooked and hurried away.
Bastaeli and Zieschka told Akinir that the contract was hers alone if she wanted it and Lady Ba’Thira offered to let her stay with her for as long as she liked.
Bastaeli and Zieschka went off to speak to the Guild about the issues at hand, and to speak of writing up a new contract to ensure Akinir got the payment alone.
Lady Ba’Thira went off to make arrangements, while Akinir stayed close to the adventures as they offered her comfort, compassion, and advice. Eventually, Lady Ba’Thira returned and took Akinir back to the house to rest before returning to the mural.
Chapter 2 - Recaps
02.13.2024 - Rumors Abound
Rumors are all over Solhaven again regarding the events of the past few days. Find Mabel so that she can set you on the right path.
Rumors are all over Solhaven again regarding the events of the past few days. Find Mabel so that she can set you on the right path.
Mabel - Wandering North Haven - to read her rumors, click here.
> news
Hunching her back a little, a stooped old woman says, "News is that I probably should start using a cane." She chuckles lightly, clearly amusing herself. "I kid, though not really. I suppose I could share a bit of gossip."
> gossip
Rubbing one wrinkled and gnarled hand against her back, a stooped old woman says, "Gossip about Leothonel? Huh? No, go ask Maellyn Kedy, she knows more about the going-ons in South Haven than anyone. Or maybe you want to ask the Kindred in the workyard down South? Oh, I'm sorry, did you say Tshomlin? Rumor has it that he made a late-night visit to Kelph. Might want to go ask her." Squinting into the crowd, she mumbles, "Excuse me, I need to go find that urchin. He probably needs to go see Kelph after what that cat did to him this morning."
Ol' Solt - located on Bayside Road - to read her rumors, click here.
> news
The old sailor says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about rumors, Tshomlin, or DragonBones."
> rumors
Furrowing his brow, the old sailor looks out at the bay and says, "I hear tell that the Merchantyle is none-too-happy at the way this shook out. Could probably get more information from Darbo up at the Outfitters on Tumbledown."
> Tshomlin
Frowning, the old sailor says, "I didn't think it would be possible for him to be more indebted than he was a few days ago." He shakes his head. "And yet, here we are with him owing something like fifteen million silvers, if the rumors are true. It's nice that the Talissen sisters want to help him out, but I can't imagine the Guild would look too kindly on him after the way he treated a fellow artist. Seems to me that the Commodore of the Sentinel Fleet has the right of it. Just drop him out at sea where there's no escape and no hope for anything but sobriety. Mans got the shakes with the booze; he'd probably fall into the sea, but would we be any worse off?"
> Dragonbones
Spitting out a curse, the old sailor says, "What a mess that was, huh? Stupid man couldn't see the trap dangling right in front of him despite some of us trying to warn him off. He connived his way into more silvers from Lady Ba'Thira, then managed to even get some from one of the temple's donation coffers. The man's an idiot. Dragonbones odds are not good for folks that don't have millions socked away to throw into it. We tried to warn him."
Maellyn Kedy - located at Maellyn's Fabrics - to read her rumors, click here.
> news
Maellyn Kedy says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about the local gossip, Leothonel, Tshomlin, Talon, Lady Ba'Thira, and Akinir."
> Leothonel
Taking a big breath, Maellyn Kedy says, "Well, Leo has been down here for a long time. Back during the Cataclysm, his parents and their whole street went under, and Charl didn't see fit to spit them back out. He was pretty upset about the whole thing, and my understanding of it is that he has a sketch of the person he thinks is responsible. Rumor has it that he's going to get that person one day, though he won't ever say who it is. I think he wants to be the hero or something."
> Talon
Dropping her voice to a whisper, Maellyn Kedy says, "Talon's rather a mixed bag, isn't she? Not sure I'm happy she's back as I don't really agree with all the things she's on about. She's trying to unify the gangs, scares even the blackest hearted, and is caring for the orphans, but the way she went after Plaitime doesn't sit well with many of us. I do miss the old scoundrel. He had some pretty good tricks that could make even raciest wench blush." Sighing heavily, she stares out the shop window for long moments.
> Lady Ba'Thira
"Oh!" exclaims Maellyn Kedy, as she gazes out the shop's entry. "That was a surprise to see her pass through here. It has been ages and I didn't even know she changed her name, but I would know Lady Solindago anywhere. She's so regal and proper. She was originally from Turamzyrr, you know? I think she was a regular at the courts in Selanthia, too. Very proper. She's kept to herself since the passing of her husband and daughters. It's good to see her out and about."
> Akinir
Leaning forward, Maellyn Kedy confides, "I don't think that anyone has anything to worry about where that young miss is concerned. Between Lady Ba'Thira's influence and the Talon's protection, she's in no danger from anything. All she has to do is... Well, be herself, I guess."
> Tshomlin
Frowning, Maellyn Kedy says, "That man should be ashamed of himself. I don't care what hardship he's gone through. You don't treat your children that way."
Kelph - located at Sargassa's - to read her rumors, click here.
> news
Kelph says, "Oh, I know a little bit about what's going on. What a mess. I was here when Tshomlin came in, you know. I suppose I could share a little bit of gossip, some information about Tshomlin, and even Bastaesli."
> gossip
Nodding, Kelph says, "Well, we heard all about the commotion down at the zoo. Rumor has it that the poor girl has been working herself to exhaustion and covering for her father. I remember when she came in here the other night. She said her father was sick and she wanted him to rest. She gave some excuse about the type of sickness and just asked for a sleeping draught for stress. Sargassa gave it to her, but reluctantly. Sounds like the girl was just trying to keep her father out of trouble."
> Tshomlin
Clucking her tongue with disapproval, Kelph says, "That man stumbled in here around the third hour of the morning. He smelled like he drank a bar or at the very least bathed in a vat of stale ale. Mistress Sargassa took a look at his hand and repaired it. He said he didn't want any magics to fix it, though, so she did a poultice and wrapped it. After she left, when she was cleaning up and making her notes, I heard her talking to herself. She said he did it himself or someone did it to him. Looks like a hammer was taken, more than once mind you, to that hand of his. I hope he's not one of those fellas that hurts himself to have an excuse for his excesses. Such a shame."
> Bastaesli
Grinning brightly, Kelph says, "You know, I went to school with her. I mean, it was a very long time ago, and I was obviously older than her, but we did! She would regale us with some of her poetry. She's very talented. She came to live here when her parents died of the Red Rot. Oh, that was so long ago, now. She's been living with her uncle ever since."
Dibbles - Wandering South Haven - to read his rumors, click here.
> News
A lanky black-haired vendor says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about Leothonel, Talon, and Tshomlin."
> Leothonel
Scratching his cheek, a lanky black-haired vendor says, "Yea, tha' boy ain't right in tha' head. Iz 'e? An' when I heard wha' 'e was doin' ta' some o' dem merchants, well, le's jist say tha's nae right. It jist aint'."
> Talon
Breaking into a wide grin, a lanky black-haired vendor says, "If'n yuh think she be angry when folks 'er disrespectin' tha' Empire, jist wait till ye see wha' she does ta' dem wha' cheats tha' poorer folks." He chuckles, "I might needs ta' git me cart an' move out fer a time." He quickly retracts his statement, "Jist kiddin'! Buy ah fishcake!"
> Tshomlin
A lanky black-haired vendor spits, "Tha' man's ah waste o' air, if'n ye ask me. Dun thin' tha' man is worth any o' 'is salt is wha' I'm sayin'. Right shameful, but tha's jist anotha' yarn in Sou' 'haven ain't it?"
Priestess - located in Lorminstra's Memorial Garden - to read her rumors, click here.
> news
An ebon-robed aging priestess says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about Tshomlin, Akinir, Danalla, Talon, and Jillou."
> tshomlin Frowning, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "I've not heard much about him, though he seems very not present. A shame, a young girl like that needs family so much during hard times. Perhaps Lorminstra will guide him to healing. Or maybe even the twins down at Scaup and Shadow."
> akinir
Speaking quietly, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "We were pleased to hear that Danalla was going to take her on in a more permanent setting. Danalla is well connected and the child won't want for anything. It won't make up for the hard life she's had, but it may help. And I did offer our services. After all, those in the Lady's service know a bit about grieving."
> danalla An ebon-robed aging priestess smiles lightly and says, "I don't like the circumstances that led to it, but I am pleased to see her with a purpose again. It will be nice to have her out and about again." GN>ask priest about leothonel
> Talon
Frowning, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "I knew her mother. She was a kind woman, completely in love with the child. Never knew who the father was, though some have made guesses. I fear for the Talon. Vigilante behavior is not one that we can get behind. I'm concerned and fearful of the path of destruction that may come in her wake."
> Jillou
Grinning wide, an ebon-robed aging priestess says, "The child is precocious but a dear. I remember when her mother passed, she was so little but she bounced back pretty quickly. Her grandparents were a bit help with that, though I'm told they've moved to Aldora with the rest of her extended family."
Worker - located at the Salter's Workyard - to read his rumors, click here.
> rumor
Shifting his weight and gazing past you into the shadows, a wall-eyed giantman worker says, "Look, I think it's probably best if you don't come around here for your rumors anymore. I don't need trouble and I certainly don't want to be caught between the Talon and the Lion." Leaning forward, he continues in a barely audible whisper, "Just be careful. I don't think that business in the zoo is over yet. I think they are planning something, but you didn't hear that from me."
Darbo - located at Darbo Phoop's Arcane Outfitters - to read his rumors, click here.
> news
Arcane Master Darbo waves and smiles at you, "Greetings. Yes, I do have a bit of news today. I suppose I could share a bit of news about the mural and Zieschka."
> mural
Grinning, Arcane Master Darbo says, "Yes, we were all so happy to hire someone. A bit unfortunate, that business, but I have it from the Hemsteads that it will all continue just splendidly. Despite all the noise about it, they seemed really pleased with the outline that the little artist created. It will be great. Just you wait and see."
> Zieschka
Nodding, Arcane Master Darbo says, "Oh yes, the jeweler. We had sent out a call for artisans to come help us. We wanted to have a dedicated voice to handle some of the backlog of citizenship work, and she was kind enough to reply. She seems to have taken very well to the Freeport. And we are very happy to have her. I think she's going to make a home for herself here. Don't let anyone know I told you this, but I think she might even open up a shop."
Red - located at Fisherman's Quay - to read his rumors, click here.
> news
> A mangy red-haired man says, "Well, in order, I know a bit about rumors, Tshomlin, the Crooked Way, Leothonel, and Marshtown."
> scuttlebutt
Scratching his stubble, a mangy red-haired man says, "Oh yea, after Dragonbones the other night the rumors have been flying on the streets. Might be a bit hectic down here for a bit while everyone figures out where their loyalties lie. Though, if we are being honest, most of us have loyalties to ourselves."
> Leothonel
A mangy red-haired man makes a rude gesture before saying, "You know, I didn't pay him much mind but then I started asking around after one of my pals overheard Jillou when she was fishing. Turns out most of the Marsh Folk who own shops over that way are being fleeced by the scamp. What's worse is I hear tell that a few folks down here are, too. Not right. We work too hard for our coin to be conned out of it by the likes of him."
> Tshomlin
Staring out into the base, a mangy red-haired man gestures to the west and says, "Oh yea, he came here all drunk and wrapped up and wanted a boat. No idea what he was looking for out in the bay. Peace? Somewhere no one could find him? I let him have it. Mans got to sleep."
> Crooked Way
Glancing over his shoulder, a mangy red-haired man says, "Oh, I uh, stay away from there, but between us sane folk, I heard they all got beat pretty hard. Praying favors from Lorminstra after the other night they were."
> Marshtown
Grinning, a mangy red-haired man says, "I got to tell you, those Marsh Folk are alright people. They broke away from the cities ages ago. A bunch of folks that didn't want to be fighters or beholden to anyone. They just went to live off of the land, and they do well by themselves. They pay a tax to the Guild so their kids can go to school, and they buy what they need like the rest of us. What's the saying? They put their pants on one leg at a time like I do, so I guess that makes them alright? Something like that."
02.16.2024 - Scoundrels and Griffins, Oh, My!
Suddenly, a startling sensation crawls across your skin causing the hairs on your arm to stand on end. Pressure begins to build in your ears, and the scent of ozone fills the air.
High-pitched and whining, a sound fills the air, causing the pressure within your ears to grow with a painful intensity.
Breaking the whining sound that hangs in the air, a loud boom causes the ground to tremble and though the ringing in your ears has subsided, your equilibrium feels off.
The ground shook.
A flash of crimson light, centered upon the Eastbridge, suddenly ripples across the sky, expanding outward into the surroundings of Vornavis.
Sudden quietude settles upon the Freeport, though only briefly as a single avian-like screech fills the deadening silence with its defiant cry.
Someone screams, “Oh, gods, the barrier is broken!”
The sound of dozens of animals rushing out of the zoo and through the streets of Solhaven is quickly followed by the clash of steel in battle and the angry cries of griffins.
Screams and cries fill the air as panicked citizens flee indoors. The cries of the citizenry are punctuated by the raucous cry of griffins.
Cries ripple across the waters of the bay, as denizens of Marshtown run in terror from the looming shadows of griffins.
The cry of a young girl flares up in the middle of Marshtown, “Hey! Shiny guys! Thems went up ta’ tha’ broken tower!” You hear an angry shout after the young girl’s voice dies down, and the slamming of a door.
Griffins and scoundrels flooded the streets of Solhaven, surging towards the North Market Bridge and into Marshtown as they sought freedom. Once through Marshtown, they regrouped in the Broken Tower, only to be heavily pursued by adventurers. Making a break for the West Road, its impossible to tell how many survived.
Lady Ba’Thira was meeting with Mister Golightly, trying to find a resolution to the issue. Mister Golightly, a zookeeper, had closed off the gates to the zoo. One presumes to keep those still within safe until they can be recaptured and then quickly created a method to find the animals.
Lady Ba’Thira admitted that she and Akinir were in the zoo when things began. She said she saw Mr. Scallabrini and he had warned them, “You should leave, I found a way to crack it, but don't worry, I'm fixing everything.” She also thought she heard one of the scoundrels say something about getting the Lion.
OOC Note: The Solhaven Zoo’s largest predators have escaped! From now until the end of Duskruin, you can help to recapture them!
Visit the zookeeper at the Main Gates of the Solhaven Zoo and collect a rod. Then head out into the environs to find the lost animals.
| Zoo animals and where they can be found | |||
| Animal Type | Segment | Animal Type | Segment |
| Big Cats | Forest Road & Lake | Bears | The Bog and West Road |
| Primates | Vornavian Jungle & Lagoon | Avians | Cairnfang Forest |
| Canines | Outlands | Small Rodents | Shan Vineyard |
03.09.2024 - Happenings at Duskruin
Adventurers spotted Leothonel in the arena and proceeded to heckle him. He attempted to heckle back, but found the task a bit much since he was trying to survive. After a round or two, he joined adventurer's in the Cheap Seats to chat. He expressed his desire to become an adventurer, much like those present. Folks gave him advice, alternatingly grilling him on his activities in Solhaven. Here are some of the things he shared:
- Tshomlin's Debt was paid with him. Turns out, Tshomlin stole a lion for Leothonel. The lioness, named Leona for the curious, fought alongside Leothonel in the arena.
- He didn't know where Tshomlin was...
- He had more excuses than "a squire" for why he was in the right and why none of what happened was his fault.
- He claims that he never intended to cause any harm and was happy his men at deeds, though admitted that the number of his gang had dwindled significantly.
- He says that he and his gang moved out of South Haven, though he didn't comment on where they went.
03.22.2024 - Caves, Trolls, and Spectres, Oh my!
Adventurers met with Lady Daniella Ba’Thira and Mr. Golightly, the Solhaven Zookeeper, at the gates of the zoo. The zookeeper shared that 446 animals had been recovered, though only 386 had been missing. He suspects that more of the smaller mammals were found than were perhaps lost. Though, some speculation was shared by all that perhaps it was due to breeding out in the wild.
Lady Ba’Thira thanked him for his work and commented upon the zoo reopening soon, though the architects were going to be there soon to reinforce the magical barricades and to ensure that no other breaks like the recent one would happen.
She inquired if Akinir was still inside, and the zookeeper said that she had been working on the mural but that a Turamzyrrian runner had come looking for Lady Ba’Thira but found Akinir first. He had shooed the runner away, but not before he’d had some time alone with the child. The zookeeper had assumed that she’d simply gone home.
Lady Ba’Thira confirmed that she didn’t and that she was worried about what the runner had shared. When asked, she revealed that Tshomlin had been picked up by an off-duty Turamzyrrian guard while he was gambling in Bloodriven. Apparently, the guard has recognized him for an old wanted poster.
It would seem that Tshomlin had pulled similar antics when Akinir was young, claiming a job for artwork and then leaving the child to do the work. His employer had called him out on it, but still paid the man for the child’s labor. However, much as he did in Solhaven, Tshomlin’s gambling debts caused him to lose all the money, leaving him penniless for the now complete cure for his wife. An altercation ensued and Tshomlin killed the healer, stole the cure, and left, taking Akinir, who was non-the-wiser, with him.
Unfortunately, the cure never made it to Talador as it was turned into the Bleaklands days before they could get to Akinir’s mother and Tshomlin’s wife.
Now, Tshomlin was to go before the court and expected to pay for his crimes. Lady Ba’Thira noted that it seemed from what the runner had said that no leniency would be given as the family of the healer had suffered greatly in the absence of their caregiver. She went on to say that she intended to petition the Vornavian court to intercede on Akinir’s behalf, hoping that instead of becoming a Ward of the Turamzyrrian Orphanages, that she’d be allowed to stay on with the lady as her caretaker.
Talon arrived on the scene with her usual acerbic comments. While she did point out that she knew were the child was, it was not until after scolding the Lady for being lax in her protective duties.
It would appear that several children at the school yard were told about the paintings in the Sea Caves by Jillou and Akinir was there.
Indeed, Akinir was found there by the adventurers. She was sad and looking at the ancient artwork for a connection to her feelings. Offering encouragement, the adventurers assured her that they would help Lady Ba’Thira’s petition and it seemed to perk the child up, though she greatly missed her father.
While the adventurers were with the child some unusual trolls appeared on the scene. Concerned for her safety, they whisked her away and reunited her with Lady Ba’Thira. Who was grateful and promised Akinir that they would discuss everything that had happened over her favorite warm drink and little cakes. The two departed.
Shortly after, a warrior moved through the market complaining that the trolls that were currently in the cave were much stronger than usual and clearly agitated.
Adventurers returned to the cave to find several things:
· Agitated trolls enmass in the caves, some quite powerful though all cave trolls as can usually be found there.
· An odd oceanic spectre
· A gurgling, hissing voice demanding that a thief return what was lost.
· Shortly after, another coastal storm flooded the area and the caves started to flood.
After a time, the trolls were put to rest but the spectres grew in number. The last that was heard that night, before the spectres faded away, was:
Issuing into the unnatural silence immediately following a recent thunderclap, a soft, hissing voice fills the air. “We will find you, little thief. We will find you, and you will pay.”
Chill winds ripple through the air, the scent of salt and brine heavy in their wake. A watery voice calls out amid the raging storm, “You have been warned.”
Summary from Vornavis Court
- Odelgarde expressed interest in the recent happenings of the Sea Caves and there was a small discussion.
- The Chamberlain read a letter from Lady Sayilla and announced that the memorial gift would be installed with the Mural that the Merchantyle Guild was constructing.
- Meril was asked if she'd considered the invitation to the Order of the Swan. She admitted to not knowing much about them and it was suggested she do more research. She will be asked again at a later date.
- Lady Danalla Ba'Thira asked the court to intercede on her behalf given the circumstances surrounding Akinir Scallabrini. Many in court supported her and the Lady will proceed, though Magister Odelgarde must interview the child in a neutral setting to ensure.
- Meril requested that Tshomlin be handed over to the Empath Guild for his crimes. Odelgarden informed that statue requires the guild to represent the healer's family, though only if she was fully guilded. She did say she would still add it to her letters.
03.31.2024 - Solhaven Zoo Reopens
The Solindago Anox has reopened. There’s been some adjustments to the payout to balance the rooms on a “flat map” with the goal of making it look like a crab, which is the zoo’s mascot.
Several foraged item props have been introduced as well.
A mural memorializing the late Lady Kasendra Malwind has been painted upon the Aquarium walls, while the memorial sent to Vornavis by Lady Sayilla has been placed beside it.
The petting zoo is reopened.
The zoo shop has had some minor updates.
There is a place to buy postcards just inside the arch.
Lastly, a Souvenir Vendor has been added to the zoo. She will take foraged flowers and leaves that are provided by the customer and transform them into necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, pins, and trinkets.
Afterwardsd
05.16.2024 - Gathering at the Cafe
Odelgarde met with adventures in Market so that she could gather testimonials from those that Akinir selected. These testimonials were to be written down and given to the courts in support of Lady Ba’Thira gaining custody of Akinir.
They retired to the Café where several impassioned statements were given.
Afterwards, they went to the zoo to see the mural that Akinir had painted.
Odelgarde said she was going to capture the image with several dreamfire panels and send a set to the Tribunal, but also to the Emperor. It was suggested as set go to Salnim, too.
While there, Odelgarde let slip that Akinir’s father had also written a letter. She stated that it was crude and the penmanship was terrible. It had little lion flourishes on it. It was surmised that perhaps he was getting sober and his penmanship was suffering – among other unsavory things – but the letter did say he wished her to stay with Lady Ba’Thira – even if he did spell her name wrong.